OKX (formerly OKEX) is a leading global digital asset trading platform that has served millions of users since its establishment. This comprehensive guide explores its founding history, key features, and market position.
Founding History of OKX Exchange
OKX was originally founded in 2017 as a professional digital asset trading platform offering:
- Spot trading
- Margin trading
- Futures contracts
- ETF trading
- Mining/pooling services
The platform emerged during the rapid growth phase of cryptocurrency markets, filling the need for a secure and feature-rich trading environment.
Key Milestones and Achievements
- 2018: Recognized as "Top Startup" in industry awards
- 2018-2019: Ranked #1 in "Top 10 Digital Asset Exchanges" consecutively
- 2020-Present: Continued expansion of trading products and global compliance
Core Features of OKX Platform
Diverse Trading Options:
- 200+ cryptocurrency pairs
- Advanced order types (limit, market, stop-loss)
- Cross-margin and isolated margin trading
Security Infrastructure:
- Multi-signature cold wallet storage
- Distributed server architecture
- Regular security audits
Developer Tools:
- Free REST API and WebSocket connections
- Sandbox testing environment
- Comprehensive documentation
👉 Explore OKX's trading platform features
Market Position and Global Reach
OKX operates as a Malta-registered exchange while serving users worldwide. The platform has particularly strong liquidity in:
| Market Segment | OKX Ranking |
|---|---|
| BTC Derivatives | Top 5 |
| Altcoin Trading | Top 10 |
| Options Volume | Top 3 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was OKX's original name?
The platform originally launched as OKEX before rebranding to OKX in 2021 to reflect its expanded services beyond just exchange functions.
Is OKX available in the United States?
Currently, OKX does not offer services to U.S. residents due to regulatory requirements. The platform maintains strict KYC procedures in supported regions.
What makes OKX different from other exchanges?
Key differentiators include:
- Industry-leading API stability
- Deep liquidity for derivatives
- Regular new token listings
- Robust staking/monsoon products
👉 Learn about OKX's security protocols
The Evolution of Digital Asset Trading
Since 2017, OKX has grown from a crypto-only exchange to a comprehensive Web3 ecosystem offering:
- OKX Chain (Layer 1 blockchain)
- OKB utility token
- NFT marketplace
- Decentralized exchange (DEX)
This expansion mirrors the broader maturation of cryptocurrency markets from speculative trading toward institutional-grade financial infrastructure.
Getting Started with OKX
For new users, we recommend:
- Completing identity verification
- Starting with spot trading
- Utilizing demo accounts before live trading
- Enabling two-factor authentication
Remember that all trading involves risk, and it's crucial to only invest what you can afford to lose in this volatile asset class.